We love the tile-covered facades and rich history of Portugal’s major cities like Lisbon and Porto. Both are perfect starting points for a Portugal trip and we often create gorgeous itineraries around these two spots. But there’s nothing quite like a visit to country’s small towns and quaint villages. Here, time seems to stand still and life is simpler, slower. From white-washed homes along the coast, to hilltop castles and rolling hills of olive groves, the Portugal’s small towns are truly remarkable. So we’re sharing some of Spain Savvy’s picks of some of the most beautiful villages in Portugal, from remote enclaves to coastal gems.

A Note on Getting There

Most of these villages are only reachable by car. Thus, renting a car or hiring a private driver is the best way to fully experience them. Read more here about tips on driving in Portugal, or ask your travel designer to help with the planning.

Sintra

If you’ve been to Lisbon, chances are you’ve also taken a day trip to Sintra. This beautiful village in Portugal is about a 30 minute drive from the capital city (trains are also available) and boasts a collection of 19th-century castles, palaces, and gardens. This area served a summer holiday retreat for Portuguese royals during the days of the monarchy. It’s no secret Sintra is crowded with tourists. But the brightly colored facades castles rising up from lush forests make for a fairytale setting worth waiting in line for.

Óbidos

This small village made it to our list of Must-See Portugal Destinations to Add to Your Itinerary for a reason. Just a little over an hour north of Lisbon, it’s a great place to stop if you’re driving from the capital up to Porto. Óbidos is a charming village encircled in Medieval walls. It’s also a UNESCO Creative City and is known as a literary town, with a destination-worthy bookshops that regularly host writing events and book festivals. Get lost in the winding streets and pose for a picture with the magenta bougainvillea all over the town.

Aljezur

This tiny village of whitewashed facades sits just north of the more touristy town of Lagos in Portugal’s famed southern coastal region, the Algarve. Along with a surf culture and tranquil hippie vibe, the area boasts some impressive hikes along the steep cliffs and majestic blue waters. You can also discover Moorish castle ruins from the 10th century and a neighboring vibrant green countryside.

Silves

Also in the Algarve is the town of Silves. Along with quintessential terracotta roofs, Silves has a perfectly preserved Moorish castle, fortress walls, and cobblestone streets all worth exploring. It’s an ideal jumping off point for lounging on the Algarve beaches or kayaking around their rust-colored rock formations. While staying right off the beach is convenient, a stay in Silves means you’ll avoid overcrowded beach towns. Or simply take a day trip to switch things up.

Nazaré

For more of that surf culture, this fishing village on the central coast has the biggest waves in the world (we’re talking world-record). Whether you’re sitting along seawall to capture ancient fishing traditions, watching surfers from around the globe tackle monstrous waves around the Praia do Norte, or trekking up to Sítio for epic views of the horseshoe-shaped coastline, Nazaré’s grandeur is bound to impress you.

Évora

For adventures through inland Portugal, Évora is the ideal place to explore Portugal’s Alentejo region. While technically a city, its small-town atmosphere feels far removed from the crowds in Lisbon or Porto. It’s also a rich historical spot, with impressive Roman ruins and the largest medieval cathedral in Portugal.

Monsaraz

Monsaraz is another charming village in the Alentejo region. Perched on a hill overlooking olive groves, vineyards, and the Alqueva Lake, it’s obvious why Monzaraz is one of the most beautiful villages in Portugal. Spend the afternoon wandering the handful of medieval streets and end the day enjoying the breathtaking sunset from the top of the hill.

Aveiro

What’s known as the Venice of Portugal, Aveiro’s channel of canals set it apart from other parts of the country. Take a ride in one of the colorful Moliceiros boats, or have a seafood-filled lunch along the water. Then, wander the fisherman’s corner or head to the beach  on the Costa Nova (less than 5 miles away), known for its brightly painted striped beach houses. Just an hour south, Aveiro is a great day trip from Porto.

Piodão

For those looking for true rural escape in Portugal, the tiny village of Piodão is an ideal visit. Seemingly buried into the hills of the Serra do Açor, the buildings in this 13th-century mountain town are made entirely of stone (specifically schist), which make for a quaint landscape unlike any other in Portugal. Keep in mind there are few luxuries here. A visit to Piodão is about getting away from the hustle, taking a hike, and experiencing a different side of Portugal.

Monsanto

Monsanto is a remarkable historical village close to the Spanish border, and sits halfway between Porto and Lisbon. When the village was first constructed, inhabitants made use of their surroundings by building homes into the granite boulders of the hillside. Even some of the roofs are composed entirely from one piece of stone, which is why it’s comically said that many hoses are made from just one single tile! In 1938, the country gave Monsanto the title of “The Most Portuguese Village.”

Ready to discover a unique side of Portugal? Ask us about incorporating some of these idyllic villages into Portuguese itinerary.